Matroneum

Architectural element usually found in the church in the form of a separate story of a mezzanine style, located above the porch or overhang over the main entrance to the temple. Matroneum is a gallery supported by columns or pillars, opened to the interior of the church. Placed above the aisles, it is most often a separate room for the monks. The Matronea at the chancel acted as the treasury, chapel or the lodge of the rulers. Placed above the porch or between the nave and the chancel, it was generally intended for singers and musical instruments. Matroneum can also crown the entire church.

return to the dictionary index